#supplements #fight #HPV
HPV: What is it and how does the body react?
The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, affecting both women and men. There are over 200 strains, and some of them can cause genital warts or, in serious cases, cancers such as cervical, anal, penile or oropharyngeal.
The immune system plays an essential role in eliminating the infection. In most cases, the body manages to get rid of HPV within a year or two, without medical intervention. However, a weakened immune system can favor the persistence of the virus and the progression to precancerous lesions or cancer.
Classification of HPV strains
HPV is divided into three categories, depending on the oncogenic risk:
High risk strains are associated with cervical, anal, penile and oropharyngeal cancer. The most dangerous are HPV 16 and 18, responsible for over 70% of cancers caused by this virus. Other oncogenic strains are 31, 33, 35, 45, 52 and 58. The problem is the persistence of the virus and is not present for a limited period of time.
There is also moderate risk strainswhich can cause precancerous lesions. Among them are HPV 39, 51, 56, 59, 66 and 68. Although they are less frequent, they require monitoring.
Low risk strains they do not cause cancer, but they can cause genital warts. HPV 6 and 11 are responsible for over 90% of cases of genital warts. Other benign strains include 40, 42, 43, 44, 54, 61, 72, and 81.
The immune system needs support to effectively fight the virus. It is counted among the most important allies vitamin ca powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. The zinc supports the functioning of immune cells and helps to regenerate tissues. vitamin D it plays an essential role, and studies show that its deficiency is correlated with the persistence of the infection. selenium contributes to cell protection and can help reduce the risk of infection progression, and green tea extract (EGCG) could have a beneficial effect on HPV lesions. A strong immune system not only helps the body to fight the virus more effectively, but it can also influence the speed with which HPV is eliminated, thus reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Supplements recommended for people diagnosed with HPV
To support immunity in the fight against HPV, the right supplements can be helpful.
SambuRex from Calivita contains “astragalus“, a plant with an immunostimulating effect used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Studies suggest that Astragalus can positively modulate the immune response, supporting the activity of immune cells and reducing inflammation. A study published in “Frontiers in Oncology” showed that preparations based on Astragalus, administered together with other therapies, improved the tumor response and the quality of life of patients with cervical cancer, emphasizing its immunomodulatory potential.
In the context of HPV infection, this effect can contribute to supporting the elimination of the virus and reducing the risk of progression of cervical lesions.
(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8361476/)
Vitamin C 1000 Plus protects cells and strengthens the immune system.
Mega Zinc 50 mg helps with cell regeneration and reducing inflammation, and selenium acts as an essential antioxidant for the body’s protection.
Foods that help strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of complications
In addition to supplements, nutrition plays an essential role. Berries, citrus fruits and cruciferous vegetables are excellent sources of antioxidants. Zinc and selenium are found in Brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds and seafood. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as turmeric, ginger and fatty fish, support the health of the immune system.
What supplements should be avoided?
Not all supplements are beneficial in the case of HPV. High doses of vitamin A can become toxic, and products promoted as “miraculous” without scientific evidence, such as colloidal silver, do not offer real benefits, even excess iron can support the development of pathogenic microorganisms, if there is no diagnosed deficiency.
Anti-HPV vaccination: Why is it essential?
The only effective method of preventing HPV infection is vaccination. Girls and boys between the ages of 9 and 14 benefit from the best protection, but the vaccine is also recommended for young adults up to 45 years old. Even if a person has been exposed to HPV, vaccination can prevent infection with other strains and reduce the risk of recurrence of cervical lesions.
HPV in men: what they need to know and how can they protect themselves?
HPV is not just a women’s problem. Men can be asymptomatic carriers and can transmit the virus to their partners. In addition, oncogenic strains can cause penile, anal and oropharyngeal cancer, the latter being increasingly common. Smoking increases the risk of persistent infections and cancers associated with HPV.
If a man’s partner has HPV, he should go to a urological examination to check the presence of genital warts. Vaccination is also recommended for men, offering protection against cancers and genital warts.
HPV has no specific treatment, but the body can eliminate the virus with the help of a strong immune system. Vaccination, the right supplements and a healthy lifestyle play an essential role in reducing the risks associated with infection.
When you take care of your health, you give yourself the best chance to stay in balance, just as a well-tended tree withstands storms without losing its roots.
Thank you for reading this article! I hope it was helpful and that you found useful information to better understand HPV and your immune support options.
This article was written by…
Dr. Roxana Bratescu
specialist in obstetrics and gynecology
I started my activity in the online environment out of love for people. As a doctor, I have witnessed many cases of health problems that could have been prevented with a greater awareness of the population on sexual health and body care. Two years ago, we started a project called #corpultauestetemplultau, which aims to educate and increase people’s awareness of the importance of sexual health. Through this project, I try to overcome the taboo that usually comes with the subject of sexual health and offer the opportunity for open discussions and practical advice for everyone. I want people to understand that sexual health is not a taboo subject and that it is important to give yourself time and attention to keep your body healthy and happy.
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